We are looking for a new team member to join us who shares our passion for social justice and uncovering hidden stories. Those who have done investigative reporting, social work, work in the mental health field, or any other jobs that require interviewing, research, and writing may be well suited for this position.
The criminal defense investigator will serve two primary functions:
1. Investigate the facts and circumstances of the alleged crime by gathering documentary evidence and interviewing witnesses.
2. Conduct mitigation (life history) investigation for sentencing.
Job description:
• Consult with attorneys to develop theories of the case and case strategy
• Locate and interview witnesses in person
• Prepare detailed reports based on interviews
• Prepare and maintain witness lists, timelines, and other case documents based on ongoing investigation
• Keep orderly case file, documenting all steps of casework
• Extensive research, record collection, and organization
• Conduct background/criminal history searches via databases, social media, courthouse searches, media outlets, etc.
• Maintain contact with attorneys and investigative team to provide regular case updates
• Assist attorneys with trial prep and testify in court
• Serve subpoenas
• Organize and prioritize caseload, manage calendar in order to complete work in a timely and efficient manner
• Assist team members with record collection, clerical duties, and other support
• Develop and maintain relationships with court clerks, records custodians, and others who help our team with information gathering
• Recognize and document symptoms of mental illness
• Review and synthesize case materials, providing well-organized, clear information to attorneys
Benefits include accrued paid time off, paid holidays, health insurance, dental and vision options, phone stipend, access to annual trainings, flexible schedule, positive work environment, bonus pay based on hours billed. Salary commensurate with experience.
• A minimum of three years of interviewing, research and writing experience
• The ability to communicate effectively with a variety of individuals representing diverse cultures and backgrounds and function calmly in situations that require a high degree of sensitivity, tact, discretion and diplomacy
• Excellent organization skills with great attention to detail
• Possess considerable resourcefulness, creativity, people skills, initiative and drive and the ability to analyze and evaluate facts, evidence and related information
• Must be capable of working independently as well as with a team
• Respect the humanity and dignity of our clients
• Commitment to working with clients in poverty and from diverse backgrounds
• Ability and willingness to travel and to work outside normal business hours; we have cases that take us out of county and/or state for days at a time
• Willingness to go into high crime areas and interview reluctant witnesses
• Always be punctual, reliable, accessible and responsive
• Excellent time management skills
• Spanish language skills are a huge plus, but not required
• Must have valid driver's license and reliable vehicle
• Able to meet deadlines, respond to editing, and adapt to new work situations, people, ideas, procedures and organizational structures
• Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong computer skills
• College degree
• Must be willing to commit a minimum of three years to the position
Please e-mail cover letter, resume, a writing sample and references to [email protected]. Your application will not be considered if it is not complete.
NLADA Mutual Insurance Co., RRG
